Two-time ovarian cancer survivor Nancy Ramondo is super motivated to take care of her health. "I'm very aware of what I need to do to stay fit," says the longtime Scarsdale resident, who starts her day off with meditation and a green drink, and follows a natural-foods-based diet. An enthusiastic runner and speed walker in her youth, she got sidetracked by knee and back problems, forcing her to reconsider her exercise options. For a long time she relied on the "boring treadmill" in her home's basement and some light weights. After her cancer recoveries, she wanted a low-impact workout that would increase her strength and flexibility. Four years ago, when her 35-year marriage ended and she was operating on "a lot of stress and little sleep," Ramondo discovered the Bar Method in Rye Brook, an instructor-led class that relies on the body's own weight to isolate, strengthen and sculpt muscles.

My Wellness Routine

The one-hour Bar Method class, which has its roots in physical therapy, relies on intense small movements that work leg, seat and abdominal muscles. Movements are performed at a ballet-style bar; stretching and ab work is done on the floor. Ramondo, a busy entrepreneur who juggles multiple projects, does the workout four mornings a week. About a month into attending regular classes, she says she noticed a difference in her body, not to mention her spirit. "I had a tendency to round my shoulders before, but now my back is so much stronger and my posture is better," she says. The routine also gave her back her confidence and restored her sense of well-being. "As my body sculpted and my clothes fit better, I felt better mentally," says Ramondo. "I even had people asking what was different about me. I just smiled and say it's all about going to 'the Bar!'"

Top tip:

"You need to take care of yourself first so you can give the best to your family and your work," says Ramondo, who makes a point to schedule her workouts as she would any other appointment. She goes first thing in the morning to avoid conflicts with work and personal obligations. As for what she does when she can't make it to a class? She says she turns up the music in her house and dances with her dog, Maddy.

Biggest challenge:

Developing flexibility. In the beginning, Ramondo needed to use an exercise band to lift her legs in a challenging floor exercise. . Now, she can lift them fully using only her own strength. . Ramondo can also do a split — something she never could do even in her teens!

Ultimate goal:

Five years from now, Ramondo hopes to add "instructor" to her list of job titles. She wants to help people — especially 50-plus women like herself — get in shape and also find their inner strength to master life's challenges. "Thanks to my cancer and my divorce, I've had an opportunity to grow and reshape my life," she says.